Farm structure change in New Zealand and implications for policy

Originally published:1986-03 as Discussion paper (Lincoln College (University of Canterbury). Agricultural Economics Research Unit) ; no. 99 by Lincoln College. Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit.

Abstract:

Two broad arguments are employed to justify proposals for a
government sponsored closer settlement policy. The first argument
involves testing three different theories of social policy against the
pattern of New Zealand land policy history. The social democrat
position appears most relevant to New Zealand land policy and offers
one way of achieving justice in land ownership distribution using an
active government role. The second argument involves an analysis of
property rights and the costs and benefits of farm enlargement. It is
concluded that non land owners may be able to make a justifiable claim
against land owners who enlarge and generate adverse economic and social
consequences for the surrounding community. It is also concluded that
land policy should have as a major objective the goal of distributing
land ownership among many people. Finally, a range of policy options is
presented which involve both positive steps to achieve closer
settlement and restrictions which would prevent land aggregation.[Show full abstract]